The 2021-22 NCAA basketball season has a lot to anticipate. There are returning players who look to swing momentum while star freshmen are looking to add their names into history. Let’s also not forget the transfer portal spot great players going to new programs. This season is projected to become another great year as we watch teams elevate from a season ago.
Jaden Ivey is a player that most fans and scouts should keep their eyes on. The sophomore from Purdue University displayed much potential during his freshman season. This season, Ivey looks to display the same attack mentality as he did before. He’s put in the work over the offseason and looks to be better than ever.
Strengths In His Game
There are a few things that stand out when it comes to watching Jaden Ivey play. First, it’s his attack mode to get to the basket. Ivey may not show a strong build on his body, but he knows how to attack and absorb contact around the rim. Most of Ivey’s points come off of penetration and he always seeks high percentage looks. Whenever he has the green light to make a play, he doesn’t miss an opportunity, which allows him to remain successful on the floor.
During his freshman season, Ivey averaged 11.1 points per game on 40 percent shooting. These statistics will certainly increase heading into next season. Although Ivey had his golden moments for the Boilermakers this past season, he was still getting a feel of the college level. Oftentimes, Ivey had his struggles from the perimeter and couldn’t convert on outside shots. With better shot selection and better mechanics, Ivey looks to come into this year as an improved shooter. Despite his struggles, insiders still view him as an elite two-way prospect.
Many notable games in Ivey’s freshman season allowed him to be a leader on the floor. For instance, his first college game against Liberty showed tremendous ability to attack and find openings to the basket. Although Ivey wasn’t the biggest factor of the night for Purdue, his 12 points on 5/7 shooting were great contributions for his first collegiate contest.
Another impressive output from Ivey occurred on February 6, as he controlled the game for Purdue. Ivey is a natural team player and he understands when his team needs him the most. Becoming aggressive offensively was something that Ivey made sure to do this night. He went on to score 20 points in this contest on an efficient 6/14 shooting. He was in attack mode from the jump and continued to carry the team on his back in an impressive win.
Areas to improve
Some of Ivey’s stats don’t seem impressive to an average scout. But once people get a glimpse of what he portrays on the floor, he is known as a complete player. The area where I would love to see Ivey be utilized more this season is as a playmaker. He shows the ability to run the floor but it’s not necessarily his job. Due to his talent offensively, switching Ivey to a playmaking role can create opportunities for others to succeed. Ivey needs to continue to expand his game more to display the versatility he brings to the floor.
Moving Forward
Going into his sophomore campaign, Ivey will improve tremendously from his freshman season. He now has a taste of competing at the college level. Now it is time to elevate going forward. Pairing with senior sensation and leader, Trevion Williams, both he and Ivey expect to lead Purdue as a top contender in the Big Ten once again.
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